Selected Poems

Langston Hughes captured the lives of black people in the USA in his poetry for over forty years, and this edition is his own selection of his work, first published in 1959. It includes all of his best-known poems, such as "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," "The Weary Blues," "Song for Billie Holiday," "Black Maria," "Magnolia Flowers," "Lunch in a Jim Crow Car," and "Montage of a Dream Deferred." He is now seen as one of the great chroniclers of black American experience and one of the great artists of the twentieth century.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 01 October 2020
\n Publisher: Profile Books Ltd
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For more than four decades, until his passing in 1967, Langston Hughes vividly depicted the lives of African Americans in the United States through his poetry. This edition represents Hughes' own curated selection of his work, originally published in 1959. It encompasses all of his renowned poems, including "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," "The Weary Blues," "Song for Billie Holiday," "Black Maria," "Magnolia Flowers," "Lunch in a Jim Crow Car," and "Montage of a Dream Deferred." Renowned as a pivotal figure during the Harlem Renaissance, Langston Hughes is now widely recognized as one of the foremost chroniclers of black American experience and a distinguished artist of the 20th century.

Introduction:
Kayo Chingonyi, a talented young poet with numerous accolades, has provided a fresh perspective to this timeless collection. Her introduction offers insights into Hughes' life, work, and the enduring impact he had on the literary landscape.

Langston Hughes' Poetry:
Hughes' poetry is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of black American life. His words resonated with people from all walks of life, shedding light on the struggles, joys, and complexities of the African American experience. From the vibrant rhythms of "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" to the poignant portrayal of resilience in "The Weary Blues," his poems showcased his profound understanding of the human condition.

Harlem Renaissance:
Hughes played a significant role in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that emerged in the 1920s in New York City. He was a founding member of the NAACP and used his poetry to advocate for social justice and equality. His work resonated with black artists, writers, and intellectuals, fostering a sense of community and inspiring a new generation of artists.

Legacy:
Langston Hughes' poetry continues to inspire and influence generations of artists and writers. His portrayal of black culture, identity, and the human experience has made him a revered figure in American literature. His work has been celebrated through numerous awards and honors, including the Pulitzer Prize and the National Medal of Arts.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Langston Hughes' poetry is a treasure trove of emotions, experiences, and insights. His ability to capture the essence of black American life and his commitment to social justice have left an indelible mark on the literary world. This edition of his work, curated by Hughes himself, is a testament to his enduring legacy and the power of his words to resonate with audiences across generations.

\n Weight: 258g\n
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781788164511\n
Edition number: Main - Classic Edition\n